Walter L. Shipman

After a long courageous battle with cancer and ill health, Walter L. Shipman passed to a quiet place, free of the confusion and hurt of this world, on February 18, 2011 with his wife by his side.

According to his wishes, his body has been cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Behner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

A memorial fund has been established to Hospice of Central Iowa. Cards and memorials may be sent to 2125 241st St. Fairfield, Iowa 52556.

Walt was born December 24, 1939 in West LaFayette, Indiana to Russell and Genevieve Stowe Shipman. He graduated from Alliance Ohio High School with the class of 1957. He served with the 82nd Airbourne Division from 1957-1963.

Along with partners, Earl and Warren Swanson, he purchased the Elite Billiards and Cascade Lounge in 1967, selling it in 1982. He then managed the 19th hole of the Faifield Golf and Country Club for 3 years. Following his employment there, he was manager of the Pep (Jet) Stop, until poor health forced him to retire in 1994. He had been most recently employed at Walton Club.

He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Alliance, Ohio, the Elks Club and was a commissioner on the local Veterans Affairs Board. He was known for his jokes, stories and positive outlook on life, despite the many health obstacles he faced. He enjoyed visiting with family and friends, woodworking, cooking and working in his yard.

Walter is survived by his devoted wife Ann, 5 children: Annette (Robert) Schmidt of Camcanche, Cristen (Jim) Steinbeck of Fairfield, John Shipman of Chandler, Arizona, Stefanie (Chris) Hanson of Phoenix, Arizona and Jamison (Ashley) Shipman of Liberty, Missouri, 13 incredible grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, brother: Charles Shipman of Columbia, Missouri, 1 niece and 7 nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 sister.